The East Lancashire Ornithologists' Club has been requested by the Police Wildlife Unit to remind everybody that there is NO public vehicular access up the Dunsop valley. [A limited number of permit holders are allowed]. Cars must be left in Dunsop Bridge and those wishing to visit the site must walk from there. Please be aware that this is a 5km walk with a steep climb at the end, then a 5km walk back again!
The road, which belongs to United Utilities, is private and as such is subject to Section 59 of the Road Traffic Act. Briefly, anybody found driving up the valley will be turned back and subject to a prohibition order by the police, who will be present for much of the time. Under the terms of this order, if that person goes up the valley in a vehicle again, that vehicle will be impounded. This will apply even if the prohibited person goes as a passenger and even if the vehicle belongs to somebody else.
Clearly, ELOC would not wish this to happen to any birder, so please pass this information to anybody who might wish to visit the site.
